May 24 Town secure League and Shield Double in style
Arklow Town U10A finished their 2007/2008 season on a massive high note when they captured the U10 Premier Shield with a 2-1 victory over arch rivals Newtown in Ferndale Park (Arklow United's ground) earlier today.   After the dramatic penalty shoot out defeat against the same opponents in the Cup Final last weekend, Town showed a much greater level of hunger and controlled aggression on this occasion, determined from the outset to finish the season as Wicklow’s best team in this age category, having already claimed the league title before the Christmas break.  The strong wind and narrow pitch meant that it was difficult to play good football, but Town displayed the better teamwork on this occasion and did string some good passing movements together over the 40 minutes.  They had their first breakaway attack in the third minute with a good effort narrowly wide.  Town took an early lead one minute later when Christopher O'Brien smashed home a free kick from the halfway line into the top corner - a marvellous strike.  Newtown almost equalised a few minutes later but Leslie Sharpe made a saving tackle in the box, the first of many that both he and David Boddy made throughout the match.  Goalkeeper Tiernan Mellon, hero of the cup semi final a few weeks ago, had a solid game between the posts and denied Newtown on the few occasions they had shots on goal.  Matthew O'Neill was making good inroads on the left wing for Arklow and the attacking duo of Joshua Moody and Daire O'Conchubhair also linked up well on a number of occasions.  Town almost went two up when O'Brien had another pile driver of a shot from 20 metres that was just outside the post.  The final attempt of the first half was a shot wide of the post by Sharpe, after a good inswinging corner from Moody.  In the second half, Town got off to the perfect start in the 25th minute when substitute John Paul Hurley and O'Conchubhair set up an attack that finished with Moody beating the Newtown keeper from 5 metres.  Cliona Crammond, who also came on as a second half substitute, tormented the Newtown left back with her close control and she also brought a great save from the Newtown ‘keeper with a stinging shot from 15 metres.  Town had chances to wrap up the game midway through the second half but scorable free kicks by O'Conchubhair and Crammond failed to find the target.  Newtown gave themselves a lifeline in the 35th minute with a goal but heroic defending in the last few minutes, particularly by Patrick Dempsey, and captain for the day, Darren Furlong, prevented Newtown getting the equaliser.  The final score was 2-1 and Darren Furlong accepted the Shield trophy from the WDSL official at the presentation ceremony after the game.  This win climaxes a great two seasons for this particular team, as they have four of the six competitions in the 06/07 and 07/08 seasons, league and cup double in 06/07 and league and shield double in 07/08.  The team is a great credit to the club and in particular to the management team of Dave Boddy and PJ Furlong.

May 17 Heartbreak for Town as treble hopes are dashed from the spot
Arklow Town U10A's dream of a League, Cup and Shield treble were dashed in Wicklow earlier today when they lost out to Newtown after a dramatic penalty shoot out during which Newtown scored two goals with the Town failing with their two spot kicks.  After experiencing the joy of winning the cup semi final against St. Anthony’s via a penalty shoot they had to experience the disappointment of losing in similar circumstances today, after the two sides were deadlocked at 0-0 after both normal and extra time.  This was a highly eventful final, with the tone set as early as the first minute when Darren Furlong and the Newtown number two clashing into one another on the halfway line after the Town centre forward was about the breach the Newtown defence.  The Newtown defender lay injured for a number of minutes but was able to resume and later play a fine game at the back.  Tiernan Mellon was tested early on but made a fine save and Town’s first effort was a shot wide of the target by Furlong.

Arklow forced a number of corners in the closing stages of the first half but failed to find the net although Matthew O'Neill was just wide from one of Cliona Crammond’s many well struck corner kicks.The score was 0-0 at half time and Town almost fell behind in the 25th minute but Christopher O'Brien made one of his many well time tackles to avert the danger.  Daire O'Conchubhair had a number of very good headers in the second half but all were just off target and Darren Furlong, Town’s hardest working player on the day, set up second half substitute John Paul Hurley with a pin point cross but his header was a fraction over the bar.  The very hot conditions began to sap the energy of both sets of players and it was no surprise when the 40 minutes elapsed without a goal for either team.

In the 10 minutes of extra time, Town had enough chances to win the game but a lack of sharpness in front of goal cost them dearly.  Hurley and O'Conchubhair played a neat one two but the latter’s effort was saved.  Furlong had a pile driver from 25 yards also saved and Crammond's free kick from 20 metres was over the bar.  In the dreaded penalty shoot out, goalkeeper Mellon and penalty takers Furlong and O'Conchubhair were unable to repeat their semi final heroics, and the treble dream was over when Newtown’s penalty takers struck two well taken kicks to end the tie on a 2-0 scoreline.  Arklow can still cap an exceptionally good season for them when they face the same opposition, Newtown , in the Shield final next Saturday (May 24), and a win here will not only avenge this cup final defeat but also leave them as league and shield winners for the season.

May 4 A's into Shield Final
Arklow  Town’s U-10A  team clinched their expected place in the Shield Final today when the three points they amassed gives them an unassailable lead at the top of the 6 team Premier Shield table.  Greystones were their victims on this occasion and the same team will play Newtown, in Newtown, in their last game in this competition to decide who will face the Black and Whites in the final.  Arklow won 4-0 on this occasion but more pleasing to the management team of Dave Boddy and PJ Furlong will be the manner of the performance.  After the stuttering display in the midweek game v Wolfe Tone, Town were back to their best in this match and dominated their opponents throughout the 40 minutes play.  The tone was set in the third minute when Christopher O'Brien  prevented an almost certain Greystones goal with a crunching tackle on the visitor's centre forward – such was the force of the tackle that he had to leave the field to be replaced by Cliona Crammond.  The home team scored their opening goal two minutes later when Joshua Moody, probably Town’s man of the match, put Darren Furlong through and he cut across the last defender intelligently and slotted home past the Greystones goalkeeper.  The visitors did have one good effort through their numer 7 Brandon Byrne but it was wide of the post, and they paid dearly for this miss when they conceded a penalty in the eighth minute when one of their defenders handled in the box after incessant pressure from the home team.  Daire O'Conchubhair scored his second penalty in three games when placing the ball in his favoured bottom left corner position.  Greystones did have a free on the edge of the box but their shot was blocked by the wall and from the resultant breakaway attack Darren Furlong showed great footwork when going past a number of defenders only to see his shot go across the goalmouth and wide.  Patrick Dempsey, one of the hardest working members of the Arklow Team went on a great solo run as half time approached, only to see his effort thwarted by a packed Greystones defence.  Dempsey kept up the high work rate in the second half and in the 22nd minute he forced a corner which resulted in O'Conchubhair scoring his second and his side’s third goal from close range.  The result was beyond doubt at this stage but Greystones continued to ask questions of Arklow and they brought a good near post save from Christopher O'Brien (reintroduced at half time for Tiernan Mellon)  in the 35th minute and forced Dave Boddy into a last ditch tackle on a least two occasions as they sought a consolation goal.  The Arklow defensive duo of Boddy and Leslie Sharp were in unstoppable mood however and were intent on keeping a clean sheet, which they managed to do, while midfielder O'Conchubhair’s intention was to add to his two goals and claim a hat trick and he too managed to do this when scoring with a great strike from 10 metres in the second last minute.The final score was 4-0 and Town now have there games remaining this season , a final Shield outing against St Anthony’s and then two finals, the Cup Final against Newtown and a Shield Final against Greystones or Newtown.

May 1 O'Neill sets the tone with double strike
The U10A side were surprisingly a little off colour when defeating Wolfe Tone earlier tonight, 2-1.  Town played excellent football against the same opposition last Sunday and their followers were looking forward to another exciting display in the return leg, but apart from a few players, they struggled on this occasion and were also faced with a much improved performance by the Bray outfit.  Tone almost took the lead as early as the third minute but Tiernan Mellon pulled off the first of a number of very good saves, and this scare did serve to force Arklow to increase their levels of concentration.  Matthew O'Neill had a shot come off the post and go wide but he atoned for this miss two minutes later when Joshua Moody and Dáire O'Conchubhair set him up for the opening goal of the match.  Wolfe Tone were displaying the greater teamwork in the first half and they had one shot over the bar from their impressive number 7 David Byrne and another shot saved at his near post by Mellon.  Somewhat against the run of play Town scored a second when Moody made a great run from the halfway line and set up O'Neill for his second of the match.  In the second half Tone got the goal their play deserved when their left back made a scintillating run from his own end line to the opposition end line and crossed for the centre forward to score the goal of the game.  Town did respond to this setback, with John Paul Hurley having one effort narrowly wide and Darren Furlong skimming the crossbar from a Cliona Crammond corner.  Along with Tone's excellent goalkeeper Adam Hayden, Darren Furlong of Arklow Town was the one of the best players on view on the night and he put in a superb performance at centre back, displaying a great sense of positioning and putting in some well time tackles to thwart the Bray side on at least three occasions.  When a team can win while playing poorly it is usually a sign of the team's ability, and manager David Boddy will be relying on this next Sunday when they face what should be tougher opposition in the form of Greystones who currently lie in second place on the table.

Apr 27 Town ease past Wolfe Tone to maintain Treble assault
The U10AA team enjoyed a very comfortable 5-1 win away to Wolfe Tones in Bray earlier today and in the process put on one of their best displays in any competition this season playing a delightful brand of football, full of movement and excellent passing and could well have reached double figures in goals but for some good goalkeeping by the home ‘keeper and a series of very close misses throughout the game.  Arklow won their first corner in the fifth minute and Dave Boddy forced a good save from the Tone’s number one, while two minutes later Matthew O'Neill, who worked hard throughout, was narrowly wide from fifteen metres out.  Patrick Dempsey put Darren Furlong through in the tenth minute but his shot was wide, and Dempsey himself forced the home side to concede another corner in the twelfth minute, and while Tone’s cleared their lines on this occasion, Town regained possession in the centre circle and started a passing movement which resulted in John Paul Hurley scoring the game’s first goal with a well placed shot to the bottom corner of the net. Tones had only one shot on goal in the first period and it was pushed out for a corner which did not yield any dividend. Town’s goalkeeper Tiernan Mellon was injured in the process, and he did not reappear the second half, being replaced by Christopher O'Brien.  Town continued to dominate possession and it came as no surprise when Dáire O'Conchubhair’s left footed drive hit the net in the 17th minute and the result was put beyond doubt on the stroke of half time when Matthew O'Neill lobbed the keeper from the half way line for a memorable third goal.  Wolfe Tone’s did exert more pressure in the second period, forcing a number of corners and they pulled one goal back from one of these corners.  This however only prompted Town to go up another gear and Hurley, Cliona Crammond and O'Conchubhair all had shots either on target or narrowly wide, before the latter scored his second left footed effort of the day when he went passed two defenders and drilled the ball beyond the reach of the home keeper.

Defender Leslie Sharp, who has added an attacking dimension to his repertoire of skills this season, almost scored the fifth goal with a glancing header from a pinpoint Crammond corner but the ball was inches outside the left post. The rout was completed however  in the 19th minute when Joshua Moody went on a trademark mazy run from the half way line and coolly slotted home the fifth goal.  The same two sides meet in the home leg of the Shield in the Leisure Centre this Thursday evening (1st May) night and Town will want to maintain their great momentum in this game before they then prepare themselves for two vital games that will ultimately decide their season, Shield and Cup final matches against arch rivals Newtown, to be played over the next few weeks.

Apr 20 Sharp secures Blunt success but it's Mellon the hero as Town survive sudden death penalty drama
It's an awful shame there's no admission fee charged for patrons attending games over at the Leisure Centre.  One thing is for certain - those who watched a highly dramatic Joseph Blunt Cup semi final earlier today at the Leisure Centre between Town's U10A side and St. Anthony's were more than rewarded for their presence.  What a game.  What drama.  The do or die nature of Cup football tends to lead to dramatic encounters as competing teams strive to become Cup champions, and today’s cup semi final between Town’s U10A team and St. Anthony’s ( Kilcoole) had a season’s worth of drama compressed into sixty minutes before the home team finally went through to the Cup final after a penalty shoot out.  Injuries, great saves, extra time and sudden death penalties kept the large following on its toes throughout this absorbing semi final before St. Anthony’s finally succumbed to the team who have already won the League and are now on course for both the Cup and Shield finals as their season draws to a climax.  The exchanges in the opening twenty minutes were fairly even as the visitors more than matched the favourites, and despite shots from Darren Furlong and Dáire O'Conchubhair the visitors applied plenty of pressure but found the back three of Leslie Sharp, Dave Boddy and Christopher O'Brien in resolute form.  St. Anthony’s number nine suffered a facial injury in the fifth minute and within the next five minutes Town had to make two earlier than planned substitutions when both Joshua Moody (illness) and Matthew O Neill ( injury) had to be withdrawn, to be replaced by Cliona Crammond and John Paul Hurley.  Patrick Dempsey almost opened the scoring in the 18th minute but his powerful header from Crammond’s corner was narrowly wide.  The second period saw the home team take control of the game and they were camped in St. Anthony’s half for most of this twenty minutes, forcing numerous corners and seeing two efforts come off the post.   The St. Anthony’s ‘keeper was in outstanding form however, making a  string of great saves, and, up to the end of normal time at least, was in line for the man of the match accolade.  During this period, David Boddy made a surging 50 metre run and fellow defender Leslie Sharp also powered into the opposition box in search of the vital opening goal, but the visitors ‘keeper made sure that the tie would go to extra time.  Patrick Dempsey had one good effort in the first five minute period of extra time, while Darren Furlong’s 20 metre free kick in the second period was well struck but was cleared off the line. Anthony's still looked dangerous on the break but on the one occasion when they looked to have broken through JP Hurley tracked back well and put in a well time tackle to avert the danger.  Town lost a further player at the end of extra time when Christopher O'Brien had to leave the field leaving 8 players to face the inevitable penalty shoot out.  Dáire O'Conchubhair, who played through the final stages of the match with an ankle injury, was first up for Town and his confident shot gave the ‘keeper no chance but although St. Anthony’s first penalty was wide, they scored their second while the Town’s second was wide.  At 1-1, it was time for the hero of the day, Town’s goalkeeper Tiernan Mellon to take centre stage and he proceeded to save St. Anthony’s next three spot kicks to keep the Town’s hopes alive after they had failed to score from their three attempts.  In the final act, Mellon saved the first of the sudden death penalties and Leslie Sharp was then coolness personified as he slotted the final kick of the day past the St Anthony’s keeper.  The final score was 2-1 and the Town now face either Newtown in the Cup Final.  Meanwhile, the U10C side, exited the Enniskerry FC Cup semi final, losing 3-1 against current Shield Division 2 leaders Wicklow Rovers B.  Rovers are a very strong side and having beaten Town last week 4-1 it was always going to be a big ask of the lads to win through to the Final.  However, Town put in a great effort in what was a closer encounter than the scoreline might suggest.  Rovers opened the scoring late in the first half but a great strike from Aaron Healy early in the second half levelled matters.  Rovers though struck back with two quick goals to end Town's cup run.  Credit on the day to all for a fine spirited performance with Healy and William Horsman in particular earning great credit.

Apr 13 A tale of two teams - the U10As and U10Bs come face to face in local derby
The U10A team bounced back from defeat last week to earn the bragging rights in the internal club derby between our top two U10 sides, A and B.  Match reports from both camps -

U10A - The return leg of the U10 Shield clash between Arklow Town’s A and B teams was a much closer affair that the first leg earlier in the season, and even though the A team pulled away for a 4-0 win, the B team put in a much better performance on this occasion and held the A team scoreless in the first half.  The A team had the first goal scoring chance in the fifth minute but Darren Furlong's shot was wide of the post, and while they had a number of other chances, two of which fell to JP Hurley, the B team defended very well with goalkeeper Gareth Kenny in impressive form. Cliona Crammond almost opened the A team’s account but Kenny made a great save and from the resulting breakaway attack, Joe Ledwidth went on a 60 yard run before shooting wide of the box from 18 yards.  A team Manager Dave Boddy introduced Christopher O'Brien at half time and he had a very stabilising effect on the midfield sector and succeeded in thwarting any further B team attacks. The pressure finally told in the 24th minute when Dáire O'Conchubhair played Darren Furlong through and the latter coolly slotted the ball under the advancing Kenny.  Patrick Dempsey, arguably the A team’s best player on the day, had a header just over the cross bar in the 28th minute but within the next five minutes he had put the result beyond doubt with two fine goals to leave the score 3-0.  Christopher O'Brien capped a fine second half performance with a great lob from the left sideline that went into the top corner of the net to finish the scoring. This win sets up the A team for the remaining crucial games of the season, when they face St Anthony’s in the semi final of the Joseph Blunt Cup and will most likely face Newtown in the Shield Final.

U10B -  A game of two halves as they say, playing really well in the first half, with a fine display from goalkeeper Garrett Kenny, making two vital saves to ensure matters were level at half time.  Excellent defending throughout the match by Joe Ledwith and Jay Wolohan.  The score didn't really reflect the match with Garrett being so unlucky for three of the four goals conceded, it looked for one of the goals that he had saved but with no lady luck on our side, the ball just slid in off his back after getting down to it.  Another he went to push over the bar and got too much on it taking the sting out off the shot, just enough to drop under the bar and for the last slippery conditions when he put his hand on it to drag it back to himself it slid away, to creep over the line - not a day for a keeper!  Their third goal was a good cross, met beautifully by Patrick Dempsey.  Aaron O'Toole had a great game in the centre of the park as did Aaron Kelly who went inches wide from the tip after they got their second.  One another day it might have made a difference but maybe not.  The game was played with a great spirit, none more so when Mathew O'Neill called to stop the game when opponent Joe Ledwith went down injured as the As were setting up another attack from a corner.  For this alone, and his effort throughout the game we thought Matthew O'Neill was man of the match.  On the B team, good games from Aaron O'Toole, Jay Wolohan and Garrett Kenny but Jay Wolohan was the pick of our players.

Apr 7 Town so sharp in Blunt Cup victory
Arklow Town’s U-0A Premier Division side banished the memory of last weeks 0-1 reverse to Newtown in the Shield by routing visitors Ardmore in the U10 Joseph Blunt Cup quarter final, played at the Leisure Centre.  Town set out in a very positive frame of mind and  forced no fewer then four corners in the opening five minutes of play. Ardmore did make one foray into the opposition half but Darren Furlong, who gave a man of the match performance over the 40 minutes, made a great tackle to avert the danger.  Surprisingly Ardmore took the lead in the eighth minute when a shot from twenty five yards beat Tiernan Mellon in goal, but this served only to spur the home team on and within a minute Darren Furlong had equalised with a left foot shot from the edge of the box.  The home side continued to play good passing football with Matthew O'Neill, Christhoper O'Brien and Cliona Crammond all prominent.  Midfielder Patrick Dempsey did great work along the right wing in the eighteenth minute his pin point cross found Darren Furlong who headed home the second goal that left the home team 2-1 ahead at the break.  Arklow continued to dominate at the start of the second half and they stretched their lead when a great ball behind the defence by Cliona Crammond was met on the run by Dáire O'Conchubhair who made it 3-1.  Second half substitute John Paul Hurley made a good contribution when introduced and he scored the fourth after being set up by Joshua Moody.  Any hope of an Ardmore revival was thwarted by Darren Furlong who made a great double block in the 30th minute, and although they did manage a consolation goal in the 37th minute, Arklow responded in style with a three goals in the last closing three minutes.  Cliona Crammond scored with a spectacular shot from 25 yards, John Paul Hurley netted his second of the day and Dáire O'Conchubhair completed the rout with a headed goal in the final passage of play.  Final Score:  Arklow Town 7 Ardmore Rovers 2.

Meanwhile, the U10C team also emerged victorious with a fine 3-2 away win at St. Anthony's to book a place in the Enniskerry SFC Cup semi final.  Goals from Niall McDonald and a converted penalty from Corey Mills looked to have earned extra time for the Town but up popped Conor O'Brien with a fine winner to send the Town home happy.

Mar 30 Town's unbeaten run comes to an end
Arklow Town’s U10A Premier Division side lost their unbeaten record in all competitions this season when going down 0-1 to arch rivals Newtown, in Newtown on Sunday.  Having being defeated 2-0 by Arklow in the Leisure Centre fixture earlier in the competition, the home team were always going to aim to exact revenge on their home soil and they were more than happy with their 1-0 win courtesy of one well worked second half goal.  Arklow Town were the dominant side in the opening half but the signs were ominous when they failed to convert any of at least 6 chances in the first 20 minutes.  A header and a shot from Pat Dempsey, a header and a free kick from Daire O'Conchubhair and a great shot from 40 yards by Joshua Moody all resulted from incessant Arklow pressure but unfortunately none of these efforts managed to cross the white line.  A great four player move also saw Matthew O'Neill squeeze in a shot from a tight angle but it was cleared off the line by a fast retreating Newtown defender.  Arklow had one other clear cut chance early in the second half but J P Hurley’s shot was narrowly wide of the post.  Newtown became the more dominant side after that and goalkeeper Tiernan Mellon, who had an excellent game throughout, was called on to make three saves in quick succession.  David Boddy and Leslie Sharp defended heroically during this period but insufficient support from the midfield left them outnumbered, and in the thirtieth minute allowed the Newtown number seven to score the single goal that decided the game.

Mar 9 D's maintain their push for Shield honours
With the postponement of the clash between As and Bs, focus at U10 level switched firmly to both C and D teams.  The U10C team lost out at home to a very strong Enniskerry performance with Ryan Penny the pick of the home side.  The U10D team travelled to Woodlands to face a strong Greystones side in their Division 4 clash.  The home side, although enjoying most of the possession were in the main unable to break down some resolute Arklow defending.  The pressure was to tell eventually, with the home side opening the scoring but credit the Town side for not giving up and their endeavour was rewarded with five minutes to go when Conor Hughes slotted home, to give Arklow Town a fine point on their travels.

Mar 1 A's strengthen grip with O'Neill double
For the second week running, the A team scored three goals, to secure a comfortable win away in Greystones.  The visitors were uncharacteristically hesitant in the opening exchanges and were unable to impose their passing game on the home team with the result that a 0-0 scoreline looked the most likely outcome for the opening half.  There were however a couple of good individual efforts, notably from Cliona Crammond, Daire O'Conchubhair, JP Hurley and Joshua Moody, all of whom had shots on target from long range.  It took another individual effort, this time however a brilliantly executed left foot drive from the right wing position, to break the deadlock in the fifteen minute.  Left winger Matthew O'Neill had drifted to the wing and scored in the top left corner with a great shot that gave the home goalkeeper no chance.  O’Neill made it 2-0 five minutes into the second half with a deft lob over the advancing keeper, after being put through by Daire O'Conchubhair’s pass.  Greystones had a chance to pull one back four minutes later when their centre forward was straight through, in on the Arklow goal, but net minder Christopher O'Brien dealt competently with the shot.  The outcome was put beyond doubt two minutes later when Joshua Moody cut in from the left wing and unleashed a stunning shot from twenty metres that again left the Greystones keeper with no chance.  'Stones, to their credit, continued to attack but the back three of Leslie Sharp, Dave Boddy and Darren Furlong were almost impenetrable throughout, save for one moment of indecision in the closing minutes when a ball that should have been cleared made its way to a Greystones player who scored from close range.  The three points won further strengthens Town's grip on the division and heightens the chances of an appearance in the Shield Final.  Final Score:  Greystones A 1 Arklow Town A 3

Mar 1 Howe about that!
William Howe was once again on the mark for the Town's D team as they secured three vital points in their push up the Division 4 Shield table.  William's strike was the difference on the day between the Town and opponents Wicklow Town B, the three points seeing the home side jumping ahead of Wicklow in the table.  The U10B side gave a much improved performance and can count themselves unfortunate when losing out 2-1 at home to a Newtown side pushing for Shield honours.  A solid performance, their best of the Shield campaign thus far, fell just short of earning them the points the effort truly deserved with a smashing goal from Aaron Kelly their own reward on the day.  The C team endured a rare off day, losing out 4-0 at home to a better side, Shield leaders Wicklow Rovers.

Feb 24 Mixed bag for B's, C's and D's
A win, a draw and a defeat for the three sides this Sunday, with the C team capping a fine performance with a good win at Wicklow Town.  Micheal Hudson was on the mark twice to steer the Arklow side firmly on the road to victory.  A third goal from Niall McDonald sealed the points for the travelling Town team.  The D team were a little unlucky not to claim all three points after an entertaining encounter away in Greystones.  The home side opened the scoring after a penalty was somewhat fortuitously given after a ball to hand incident.  Town struck back when John O'Halloran played in William Howe who steered home the leveller.  Town took the lead when William Howe poked home amidst a crowded 'Stones penalty.  However, the lead was not preserved and a defensive lapse was to prove costly as 'Stones equalised and the points were shared.  The B team made the worst possible start earlier at the Leisure Centre, facing Wolfe Tone A.  Inside the opening ten minutes they found themselves with a mountain to climb, 0-3 down.  A fine effort from Andrew Hobson brought the Town back into the match just before half time but all hope of a comeback appeared dashed when Wolfe Tone added a fourth early into the second half.  Darren Dempsey pulled a second goal back for Arklow but the Bray side in adding a fifth closed out the game worthy victors.

Feb 17 O'Brien strike earns Cs a share of the spoils
A Conor O'Brien strike saw the U10C side earn a richly deserved point after the now standard run of the mill titanic battle with Roundwood.  Their fourth encounter of the season, with a last minute winning goal from Roundwood in their last clash the only game to yield a winner, went pretty much as the other games:  tight!  Roundwood took the lead but Town fought back well and Conor O'Brien was perfectly placed to get on the end of a Luke Smullen corner kick.  William Horsman was brilliant in goal for Arklow, a man of the match performance capped with a marvellous penalty save.  The Town pressed for that late winner but some outstanding Roundwood defending ensured the sides remained level.  Disappointment though for the D team, and in particular the management, as a poor turn out of players meant a vastly under strength Arklow side faced a full strength Wicklow Rovers in their cup clash.  With only eight players, Arklow fought bravely throughout and it was always likely to be an uphill battle.  Charlie Scales scored Arklow's solitary goal.

Feb 16 Simple task for Bs:  Keep the faith
A fourth defeat in a row and an exit from the cup makes for pretty reading not.  However, there are times when results do not reflect truly the picture, the state of play.  Travelling to Greystones was always going to be a tough ask for the B team, promoted to the Premier Division after their Division 1 triumph before Christmas.  And so it proved to be the case, with the home side opening up a two goal cushion despite Arklow's best efforts.  Another wonderful goal from Joe Ledwith (his effort from last week against the A team will be online sometime soon!) gave the Town hope, as they pressed 'Stones for an equaliser.  Unfortunately it was not to be as the home side took advantage of Arklow throwing caution to the wind late on to nick a third and then a fourth to give the result one of those deathly looks that frustrates the life out of you!  Ryan McDonald, who came on at half time, put in a great shift, arguably his finest to date, while Andrew Hobson did wonderfully well to save a penalty kick.  Perseverence be thy name!  Keep the faith!

Feb 10 Too much red on view amongst the Black And Whites!
Pictured here are the U10A and U10B squads, together before facing each other in Sunday's U10 Shield Premier clash at the Leisure Centre.  On the day the A team proved too strong for the Bs, despite the handicap of wearing the garish colours of an English team instead of their own training bibs which surely could have been borrowed to avoid embarrassing the children into wearing the red monstrosity (editor's word remains final!).  Cormac O'Toole, renowned follower of Merseyside's second best team at present (who also wear a garish red) smiles smugly knowing that this "United" would show more attacking threat than the overpaid leg ends across the water!

Feb 10 A's win out in 'internal' derby clash with B's
A hard day at the office for the hard working B team who ended up on the reverse end of a 5-1 defeat "on their travels" away to Arklow Town A!  As has been the case for most of this season, we have little or nothing to report from the A team camp.  The B team, though obviously a little down with the outcome of today's clash with the As, point toward the determination and never-say-die attitude of players like Glen Kelly who performed ably today.  Joe Ledwith scored the solitary goal for the B team but by all accounts it was a pretty memorable strike, from all of fifteen or twenty yards.  The win for the A team maintains their excellent start to the Shield campaign and the Bs, even in defeat, have plenty of positives to dwell on as they now set their sights on the upcoming cup competition next weekend.  Considering it was a clash today between two of our best under age sides, two sides who so far this season have performed excellently at under ten level, it remains a disappointment that we continue to have little or nothing coming from the A team camp by way of coverage of their team and their exploits.  As Bob Hoskins might say, it's good to talk......communication, in defeat and victory, it's essential.  Elsewhere, the U10D side and Ardmore Rovers enjoyed a contest with little to seperate the two sides.  Ardmore though were to nick all three points with a second half strike.

Feb 9 Town edge past 'Stones
A fine strike by man of the match Aaron Healy secured a first win of the Shield campaign for the U10C side, at Woodlands earlier today.  There was little or nothing to separate the two sides on the day and a hard fought win would not have been secured without some excellent goalkeeping from William Horsman who, not for the first time, excelled between the sticks with an outstanding performance.  All in all, a fine team performance on the day, and a most welcome three points.

Feb 2 One of those days for Bs...
"Funny old game", as they say, in the first half the Town were as good as St. Anthony's and yet the only thing Garrett Kenny had to do was pick the ball out of the net twice - first from a cross that just sail in over his head on the wind and second we were caught out a bit on the break when pushing for an equaliser. Second half I must say we were camped in their half, the Town playing much better and we reduced them to one shot on goal which went wide.  Credit where it's due, the lads kept going till the bitter end.  Filling in at left back was my pick, and a lot of the lads on the team backed me on this, was Harry Nuzum.  He was almost faultless in his display of passing, getting back and protecting the defence - a true captain's performance, followed closley by Aaron Kelly, Darren Dempsey and Aaron O Toole.  I feel a win just around the corner. - Cormac O'Toole

Jan 27 10As get the better of Newtown as luck deserts all others
Tough starts to the Shield campaign for our U10B, U10C and U10D sides who all lost 1-0 on their travels earlier today.  The B side were in particular unlucky, losing out by the single goal to their hosts Wolfe Tone A in their debut game at Premier level, having recently been promoted from Division 1.  Glen Kelly had an outstanding game for the B side with other notable performances from Jay Wolohan, Peter Sherwood and Garrett Kenny who kept the Bray side at bay with a series of fine saves.  The 10C side travelled to Roundwood, to face the side that pipped them for Division 3 honours just a matter of three weeks ago.  Having drawn their previous two clashes with the Vartry based side it was always going to be another tight match and so it proved, with the home side stealing all three points with a very late strike, in the last minute of the game.  Luke Smullen had earlier levelled for the travelling Town side.  On the day, however, it wasn't to be and William Horsman was deservedly named man of the match for a superb performance with Ryan Penney not far behind him.  The 10D side were also unfortunate, losing out by the single strike away to St. Patrick's.  However, on a much brighter note, the U10A team opened their account with an excellent victory over main rivals Newtown, winning 2-0 at the Leisure Centre this morning with both goals scored by Daire O'Conchubhair.

Jan 6 Brave effort for title falls just short
Losing out on a title is always hard.  Losing out on a title on the strength of a cruel deflection is hard.  Which is precisely the fate suffered by our gallant U10C side earlier today, when playing their last Division 3 fixture away at St. Anthony's, in Kilcoole.  As a result of their first reverse of the league campaign, season-long rivals Roundwood are crowned champions and all associated with Arklow Town U10C wish to congratulate them after what can only be described as a battle of nip and tuck over the course of the League.  Trailing Roundwood by a solitary point going into today's game with St. Anthony's, a win was required in order to become champions.  A draw would have been sufficient to secure a play off.  With their previous encounter with the Kilcoole side a 1-0 victory at the Leisure Centre it was always likely to be a tight affair, and so it proved.  The game's solitary goal came in the first half, a wicked deflection that left keeper William Horsman with no chance.  Despite constant pressure it was to be "one of those days" for the travelling Black and Whites and even though they knew their chance of winning the League had slipped by with the full time whistle confirming their only defeat of the campaign, the boys should take pride in their performances over the ten games played and dwell on the positive.  Aside winning runners up medals they also secure promotion to Division Two and will begin their Shield campaign next week, with all to play for.  Well done, lads.

Dec 2 U10Bs crowned CHAMPIONS

Paul McCartney once sang about a long and winding road and indeed it feels as though our U10B side have traversed that very same road this past few weeks, as they drove themselves onwards towards the Division One title.  A titanic struggle with Wolfe Tone for the title has been the story of the season and after nine games unbeaten it seemed to be fate (Rev. Nigel Sherwood categorically denies Divine Intervention playing a part!) that saw the Town travelling to Bray to face Wolfe Tone in their last league game, requiring a solitary point on the day to be crowned deserving champions.  Credit to Wolfe Tone, who dug out a 1-0 win that day, heroically denying a constant Arklow assault on their goal that day, for taking the title chase down to the wire.  Requiring two further wins from their last two games in order to pip the Arklow lads they won their penultimate game to set up a title winning game of their own away in Ashford earlier today.  The immense disappointment on view at Temple Sportsfield the other week, on the faces of the Arklow boys, can now turn to an outbreak of joy, as Ashford Rovers prevailed in the title decider with Wolfe Tones, winning 3-2, ensuring the Town U10B side made it a double champions celebration alongside the A side who lifted the Premier title last weekend.

Manager Cormac O'Toole offers the following thoughts, "After a couple of weeks of pure torture, waiting on Wolfe Tone results, at 12.20pm today I got the text message I have prayed for: Ashford Rovers 3 Wolfe Tone 2.  Yes!  Firstly I want to congratulate each and every player on the team for a tremendous effort throughout this league campaign both in training and at matches.  They all worked so hard for this and fully deserve their glory.  In their matches they all worked for each other and what pleased me more than anything was that they never ever gave up, worked tirelessly for each other and with that kind of effort you will always get what you deserve.  On behalf of myself and Brendan thanks to each and everyone of you.  I want to thank and congratulate my co-manager, who without his help and support over the past 3/4 years this could not have been possible.  Thanks a million Brendan.  I can't leave without saying something about the wonderful support of each and every parent associated with this team because without their effort, getting the lads to training and matches, this could not have been possible.  You also played a huge part in your childs glory of being Leauge Champions.  So in my mind this makes you the best supporters in the league, you too are champions in your own right.  From Brendan and myself THANK YOU... It all starts again Tuesday evening at training - same time, but as you know, myself and Brendan are up there from about 6pm even though training offically starts at 6.30pm, the lads are more than welcome to come up . See you all Tuesday!"

Nov 25 Last gasp strike makes A team CHAMPIONS
John Paul Hurley could not have selected a better time ever to score his third league goal of the season when his last minute strike ensured the U10A side were crowned U10 Premier Champions.  With main rivals Newtown finishing on 24 points, the Town knew that nothing less than victory over Wicklow Rovers, in Wicklow, would secure the Title.  Having already defeated Rovers 1-0 earlier this season, the A team knew it would be anything but easy and so it proved, in a tight affair with nothing given by either side, both well aware of the high stakes.  As the nerves increased, and the pressure mounted, it truly looked as though the Town, long time leaders of the Premier Division, would have to settle for a play off with Newtown.  Until, that is, young John Paul Hurley popped up with his last gasp strike to send the team and support into raptures, the Title theirs.  Well done team!  Meanwhile, the U10D team continued their fine run of late with a comfortable 3-0 victory over Greystones United B at the Lesiure Centre.  Jack Hill scored twice and Conor Hughes added the other as the D team made it four games unbeaten.

Nov 18 Late late show proves costly in Conary
The U10D side were left to rue what might have been after a two goal lead was allowed slip in their Division 4 fixture away to St. Patrick's.  Town had taken a two goal lead thanks to a brace from William Howe.  St. Patrick's pulled one back late on but after what seemed like an eternity, a late late show saw the home side level matters, leaving the Arklow side to rue what might have been.  Two points most definitely dropped.

Nov 14 Down to the wire for the 10s
It was ironic in its own sorry way that as the webmaster was heading home from a weekend away last weekend from Spanish Point in Co. Clare, two under ten managers would call in with tales of woe en route home, both sides having to settle for one point themselves, instead of the preferred three, with the respective divisional successes put on hold for at least a week further!  The U10A side, literally, had the Premier Division won, with a Cliona Crammond strike about to see the team over the finish line in their supposed do-or-die decider with Newtown.  As it transpired, a somewhat suspicious call enabled Newtown an opprtunity to fight another day, thanks to a late late penalty.  With no game themselves this weekend, the A team could yet be crowned champions if Newtown fail to secure anything but the three points when they face Wicklow Rovers.  The B team meanwhile head for Temple Sportsfield in Bray and another joust with Wolfe Tone.  Earlier this season the Town side triumphed 6-1 at the Leisure Centre, with Joseph Ledwith scoring a hat trick that day. 

Harry Nuzum, who has been excellent thus far this season will be hoping that the U10Bs can secure the minimum one point required to be crowned Division One champions.  We wish them the very best on Sunday. The U10C's seem to have been caught in an eternal battle with Roundwood for honours atop Division 3.  With two games left, Town hold a slender advantage, two points ahead of their Vartry based rivals - a win at home against Enniskerry on Sunday will see the C team with one hand, possibly two, on the title.  Corey Mills, who scored the precious winning goals last weekend will once more be hopeful of finding the net.  Lest we forget, even though not competing for the honours, the D team more than merit a mention.  Competing in a league where both Rathnew and Wicklow Rovers still possess 100% records was never going to be easy and though results have been a little hit and miss, I think it's fair to say the performances give hope for the remainder of the year ahead.  There's not too many sides floating in mid table with a positive goal difference.  Two good wins to finish, against St. Patrick's and Greystones will give the D team confidence for the Shield competition.  Good luck to all sides!

Nov 4 Super Smullen saves the day
Those present watching the top of the table clash at the Leisure Centre between the Town's U10C side and Roundwood were given full value from two sides battling all the way for league honours.  Roundwood still on top of the division, one solitary point ahead of Town who still have one game in hand.  Luke Smullen fired the home side into an early lead with a great strike and the joy was doubled when Corey Mills added a second goal.  Roundwood struck back almost immediately and before half time had shook the home side with three goals, leaving the home side trailing 3-2.  The second half was a tight affair, with nothing given by either side.  Just as it appeared as though Roundwood were heading home with the points up popped man of the match Luke Smullen to crash home a third goal, the leveller ensuring that the destiny of the League remains unanswered for another week.  The U10A side strode ever closer to the Premier title when thumping Greystones United A 5-0 at the Leisure Centre - with both Patrick Dempsey and Joshua Moody scoring twice.  Matthew O'Neill added a fifth which leaves the Town side close to being crowned champions.  The U10D side also enjoyed a fine win, on their travels to Ashford.  Conor Hughes and David Hill both netted for the Town but pride of place on the day fell to hat-trick scorer Paul Ryan, with the three points lifting the side higher in the division.

Nov 4 One hand on the title
The U10B side welcomed Greystones United B to the Leisure Centre and ran out worthy 5-1 winners.  All twelve players contributed greatly but it was to be Harry Nuzum who earned the man of the match award.  Andrew Hobson opened the scoring with an absolute screamer from outside the box.  Leading by that solitary goal at half time, the Town stepped up a gear after the restart - playing the ball around with great skill and purpose, picking out passes.  Harry Nuzum, involved in all things good, smashed home the second.  Substitute Ryan McDonald chased down a lost cause and drilled in a cross from the byline that went in off a Greystones defender.  Joseph Ledwith added a fourth with a cracking strike from six yards out and the fifth came after a fantastic run down the left flank by Aaron Kelly, who cut inside the opponent's are and with perfection coolly placed the ball in the bottom left hand corner.  The scoreline could have been greater if not for the Greystones keeper who performed heroics - denying both Aaron Kelly and Aaron O'Toole on numerous occasions.

Oct 21 Hi 5 for O'Connor as 10As hit Tones for 10
Daire O'Connor's five goal haul against Wolfe Tone A will certainly grab the headlines in what was an overwhelming 10-2 victory for the A side in the game played at Temple Sportsfield earlier today.  A performance full of good football, neat passing and tireless graft saw the U10A side cruise to victory.  John Paul Hurley found the net twice and Cliona Crammond was also on target, for a second week running.  The victory was completed with further goals from Christopher O'Brien and Patrick Dempsey.  The tension mounts for both U10B and U10C sides with both earning a share of the spoils in tough fixtures over the weekend.  The B side once again ran into a Coolboy side who have proved difficult opponents to beat in the past.  The visitors took an early lead, to increase Town frustrations but with Harry Nuzum putting in a man of the match effort, the sides were level before half time with an equaliser coming from a lucky bobbly effort from the boot of Aaron O'Toole, placed gracefully home by the mercurial scoring boot of Joe Ledwith!

We'll credit young Ledwith for the goal on the grounds of young master O'Toole on occasion harrassing the webmaster!  A fine display from the team with keeper Garrett Kenny a virtual spectator as they went in search of a winner.  Jay Wolohan went close towards the end with a headed effort going the wrong side of the post.  The U10C side had to come from behind twice in order to preserve their unbeaten status in the league this season when facing Ardmore at Ballywaltrim.  Luke Smullen grabbed the first equaliser and Conor O'Brien the second with John Burke catching the eye with an excellent display.  The U10D side were edged out 3-2 by a highly organised Rathnew side at the Leisure Centre.  William Howe put the Town one up with a left foot effort which squeezed past the Rathnew keeper.  The away team, preserving a 100% start to the season, scored three goals to command a lead but the Town side never gave up and indeed without some fine saves from the Rathnew keeper might have earned something from the game.  A late headed goal from John O'Halloran gave Arklow hope but it wasn't to be.

Oct 14 Happy days for the 10s with wins all round
After conceding their first goals of the season last weekend and dropping league points for the first time this term, the U10A bounced back in style earlier today when defeating St. Anthony's A at the Leisure Centre.  Daire O'Connor was on target for the third game running but most went home recalling Cliona Crammond's wonderful free kick from 25 yards out, that secured the 2-0 win to keep the A side atop the division.  The U10C side have been equally as impressive in their division and once again they returned home from their travels with the points and smiles in the bag!  Earlier today they defeated St. Fergal's 3-2 with goals coming from Luke Smullen, Aaron Healy and a winner from Corey Mills - a result which places them now on top of the division.  It's worth mentioning that the win might not have been secured without Conor O'Brien putting in a sterling effort in midfield, rightfully earning him the man of the match plaudits.  The U10Ds also enjoyed a good weekend when overcoming a St. Patrick's side 5-1 at the Leisure Centre.  Both Paul Ryan and William Howe netted twice and the fifth goal came courtesy of a Tomas Farrell strike.

Oct 13 10Bs grind out away win to remain on top
The U10B squad travelled to Ashford earlier this morning minus the presence of three key players.  Early exchanges were pretty even with Town goalkeeper Garrett Kenny in fine form denying the home side on more than one occasion.  Darren Dempsey, who has proven to be a bit of a poacher in front of goal this season, saw a goal bound shot deflect off an Ashford defender and past their keeper to give the Town lads a slender 1-0 lead.  Town went close again on numerous occasions with efforts by Aaron Kelly, Harry Nuzum and Aaron O'Toole.  The second half was practically a carbon copy of the first half with Garrett Kenny keeping out the home side.  Peter Sherwood, captain on the day, also put in a man of the match performance, bossing the midfield area - and he was part of the great move which led to Arklow scoring a decisive second goal as Joe Ledwith was on hand to finish off the move with a blistering shot that no keeper would stop.  In the end, a tough game ending with a satisfying first clean sheet of the season for the side and a 2-0 scoreline which keeps the Town on top of the division.

Oct 7 Bloodied noses but chins remain held high
It's often been said by our metropolitan cousins that you wait an age for a bus without much success, and then from nowhere three emerge.  Similar can be said of both our U10A and U10B sides over recent weeks with both sides winning their opening four games this season.  All good things, they say, must come to an end and that was the case for both teams this weekend - though, as stated in the headline, they both remain unbeaten and in the cold light of day both sides may reflect on lost chances to sniff three precious points on their travels but will not dismiss lightly good points won on their respective travels.  The A side endured a frustrating time in their top of the table clash with Newtown as the home side levelled in what most football observers may describe, politely, as "Alex Ferguson time".  Goals from Patrick Dempsey and Daire O'Connor had set the A side on their way to an excellent win before the late late show ensured a point apiece.  The U10B side (hello young master Wolohan!) opted for a woodwork class away in Coolboy, hitting the frame no less than four times in a gritty 1-1 draw.  Aaron O'Toole had an inspired game giving his all for the team, covering every blade of grass, and coming close to scoring himself in the move which saw Harry Nuzum putting the Town 1-0 up.  The U10C side continue to improve with every game, yet again victors at the Leisure Centre when getting the better of a St. Anthony's side 1-0, the goal being scored by man of the match Micheal Hudson.

Sep 29 B team hit top position with fourth successive win
Arklow Town U10B emerged convincing winners in their early season top of the table clash with the visiting Wolfe Tones B side in a match played at the Leisure Centre earlier today.  An impeccable minute silence was observed by all present before kick off for the two Bray firemen who tragically lost their lives during the week.  This Wolfe Tones side had been previously unbeaten for a reported two year period so the Town lads knew they were in for a tough game.  Regular goalkeeper Joe Ledwith was afforded a chance to show what he could do at the other end, selected to play up front, with Garrett Kenny replacing him in goal.  It was to prove an inspired selection by the management team of Cormac O'Toole and Brendan Kenny.  Last weekend's hat-trick hero Darren Dempsey was once again on target, opening the scoring, to maintain his own personal good run in front of goal.

Joe Ledwith added a second before the game's key moment firmly pushed the pendulum Arklow's way.  A penalty given to the Bray side was magnificently saved by Garrett Kenny, an outstretched hand pushing the ball around the left post.  Further saves from Garrett ensured Wolfe Tone could not find a way back into the game despite their best intentions.  A third goal for Town, just before half time, again scored by Joe Ledwith, deflated the away side and he went on to complete his hat trick in the second half.  Other goals were scored by Harry Nuzum and Andrew Hobson but in spite of the resounding 6-1 scoreline the man of the match was goalkeeper Garrett Kenny, responsible not only for the penalty save but also a string of saves which gave his side the confidence to secure a fourth win from four starts and an early season grip on top spot!

Sep 27 Battle of the Four Shifts
A rather novel idea from U10B manager Cormac O'Toole has spawned an inaugural Battle of the Four Shifts, amongst employees of Allergan, to be played upon the hallowed turf of Bridgewater Centre Park, Lamberton this Saturday, the fun and games commencing from 3.00pm till approximately 6.00pm, last team standing wins the honours and the bragging rights in the workplace for the next twelve months at least.  The main beneficiary of this novel tournament will be our own Arklow Town Juniors and with a guaranteed afternoon of fun and games it's well worth the minimum entry fee of €4.  All funds raised go towards our under age sides so please do come along and support the event if you can.  Bring a camera too - pictures never lie!

Sep 23 C team continue fine run
The Town's U10C team preserved their unbeaten start to the season when defeating Ardmore Rovers B side 4-1 earlier today at the Leisure Centre.  Corey Mills weighed in with two goals and further strikes from both Niall McDonald and Luke Smullen ensured a comfortable victory for the team who collectively worked their socks off for the team with Ryan Penny the man of the match.  The U10A side has made an impressive start to the season, winning their opening three game and still yet to concede a goal.  It could be argued that their greatest challenge over the course of the season lies in their manager being able to submit scores and details (dare I ask for a photo?! - webmaster).  Hope springs eternal on that score!  A solitary goal on Sunday by Patrick Dempsey ensured the A side oncemore won the points after a tight encounter with Wicklow Rovers A at the Leisure Centre.

Sep 22 Darren celebrates his birthday early with hat trick
Town striker Darren Dempsey hit the back of the net three times for the U10B side as they maintained their impressive start to the league season with a hard fought 3-1 victory over a decent Ardmore Rovers side at the Leisure Centre.  An impressive display by the entire team was capped with Darren Dempsey, celebrating his birthday this week, netting a second half hat trick.  After a goalless first half Dempsey was introduced as a second half substitution.  It proved to be a wise choice as he plundered a wonderful second half hat trick to make it three wins from three for a committed U10B side.  Glen Kelly, on the day, was the pick of the players, putting in a man of the match performance at left back, forever a willing option down the left wing.  Elsewhere, the D side ran into an in form Wicklow Rovers side on their travels and lost 2-0.

Sep 16 Under 10D side find their scoring boots
The U10Ds recorded an emphatic 5-0 win over Ashford Rovers at the Leisure Centre on Saturday.  Despite the scoreline it was a tight affair until the first goal went in, scored by William Howe.  Paul Ryan scored twice and further goals from John O'Halloran and Tomas Farrell completed a good day's work for the team.   The U10A side recorded a second successful 2-0 victory, winning away at St. Anthony's - goals scored by Joshua Moody and Darren Furlong.  The U10B side maintained their equally impressive start to the season when defeating Greystones United at Woodlands in Greystones.  Michael Kennedy earned the plaudits for a superb performance with the goals scored by both Ryan McDonald and Harry Nuzum in a 2-1 victory.  The U10C put in a great collective effort when drawing 0-0 away in Roundwood, with William Horsman quite superb between the posts.

Sep 9 Under 10 sides make promising starts
Those in attendance over at the Leisure Centre on Saturday witnessed the comeback of the day, with the U10Bs coming from 0-2 down to record an excellent 5-2 victory over a gallant Ashford Rovers A team.  The twelve lads on the B panel gave their all in the face of trying circumstances.  Aaron O'Toole had to come off injured after only five minutes, to be replaced by Aaron Kelly.  Town fell one behind not long later.  The hill became a mountain when a rebounded clearance fell into the path of the Ashford striker who hammered home from ten yards.  Arklow's comeback began instantly from the restart of the second half with substitute Michael Kennedy picking up the ball on the left flank and whipping in a delightful cross for Darren Dempsey to slot home.  Town were awarded a penalty not long after, converted by Andrew Hobson, the sides now level.  Keeper Joe Ledwith kept the home side in the game with a wonderful save, and Harry Nuzum went close for Town at the other end.  After a scramble in the Ashford box, it was Garrett Kenny who put the home side ahead for the first time.  Aaron Kelly gave the Arklow side daylight when smashing home from from the right edge of the box and the points were secured when Andrew Hobson nabbed his second of the game after excellent work by Ryan McDonald down the right wing.

Aug 25 Pre-season training camp
The U10A side will enjoy a pre-season training camp this coming week with trainer Lar Mahony (pictured right).  The team are hoping for another successful season having won last season's league title at U9 level and are eager to start the new season brightly.  Training commences on Monday for three days, beginning at 10.00am till midday.

Jul 28 New season squads announced
We have four under 10 sides playing this upcoming season.  Listed below are the four teams competing in this age category:  A, B, C and D. Good luck to all over the coming season.

Under 10A WDSL U10 Prem
David Boddy, Joshua Moody, John Paul Hurley, Patrick Dempsey, Leslie Sharp, Daire O'Connor, Darren Furlong, Cliona Crammond, Tiernan Mellon, Matthew O'Neill, Christopher O'Brien.

Under 10B WDSL U10 Div 1
Aaron O'Toole, Garrett Kenny, Joseph Ledwith, Jay Wolohan, Darren Dempsey, Aaron Kelly, Glen Kelly, Harry Nuzum, Peter Sherwood, Michael Kennedy, Andrew Hobson, Ryan McDonald.

Under 10C WDSL U10 Div 3
Conor O'Brien, Aaron Healy, Niall McDonald, Ryan Penney, Micheal Hudson, Jack Hamilton, Corey Mills, Cormac O'Callaghan, Luke Smullen, William Horsman, Quentin O'Reilly, John Burke, Darragh Kelly.

Under 10D WDSL  U10 Div 4
Jack Hill, David Hill, Eoghan Doyle, Conor Hughes, Charlie Scales, Matthew Jones, Aaron Quinn, William Howe, Tomas Farrell, John O'Halloran, Gavin Ward, Stephen O'Reilly, Paul Ryan.